PTS - Personal Track Safety Safe Access and Egress Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'possession boundary board' (PBB)?

Answer: A physical marker placed on the line at the limits of an engineering possession, warning approaching trains that they must not enter beyond that point

A possession boundary board marks the physical limit of an engineering possession on the track, warning train drivers approaching the boundary that they must stop before that point.

What must a COSS check about the planned access route before briefing workers?

Answer: The condition, width, and specific hazards of the cess and access paths, confirming they are suitable for all workers and equipment that will use them

The COSS must physically inspect the planned access route to confirm it is safe, suitable for all workers and equipment, and free of hazards not accounted for in the risk assessment.

What is the significance of a 'do not walk beyond this point' board (DNWBYTP) on the railway?

Answer: It marks the limit of a safe system of work — workers must not pass it without obtaining further authority from the COSS, as the protection arrangements beyond it may not cover them

A DNWBYTP board marks the working limit of the current protection arrangement — workers must not pass it without explicit COSS authority and confirmation that protection extends beyond the marked limit.

When is a 'walking route authority' required and what does it authorise?

Answer: It is a formal authority issued by the COSS to allow workers to walk along a specified route on or adjacent to the track, defining the exact route, time window, and any specific conditions

A walking route authority is issued by the COSS to authorise workers to travel along a specified route on or near the track, defining the exact permitted route, time, and conditions.

What precaution must be taken when carrying long or large items (e.g. scaffold poles, rails, ladders) while accessing the railway cess?

Answer: Long items must be carried parallel to the running line (horizontally), never perpendicular, to prevent them fouling the running line if the carrier stumbles or loses grip

Long items must be carried parallel to the line — if carried perpendicular and dropped or if the carrier falls, they could foul the running line and cause a derailment.

What should a COSS do if the planned access point onto the railway is found to be unusable on the day (e.g. padlocked, obstructed, or unsafe)?

Answer: Suspend access, contact the relevant authority to resolve the obstruction or obtain an alternative authorised access point, and do not begin work until a suitable authorised access is confirmed

If the planned access point is unusable, access must be suspended until an authorised alternative is formally confirmed — informal access must never be used regardless of programme pressure.